1997 Audi A8 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 260 kg more than 1997 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A8. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 88 L |
